The article reflects on Hank Aaron's enduring legacy and the camaraderie among former Black baseball players who gathered to honor him, share stories, and discuss the importance of preserving their history amid declining Black participation in MLB.
Fifty years after Hank Aaron's historic 715th home run, Gresham Park in Atlanta continues to honor his legacy as a hub for Black baseball players. The park, once 95% Black, has seen changes due to gentrification, but remains a symbol of Black empowerment and a training ground for talented players. Former Braves outfielder Marquis Grissom's program and Mentoring Viable Prospects are nurturing young Black baseball talent, ensuring they understand the significance of Aaron's achievements. As the city of Atlanta celebrates its Black heroes, Aaron's impact endures, inspiring a new generation of players and preserving his legacy for years to come.
50 years ago, on April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth's home run record in one of the most famous moments in baseball history. The pitcher from that day, Al Downing, reflects on the historic event.
On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron made history by hitting his 715th home run, breaking Babe Ruth's record. Despite facing racist letters and death threats leading up to the milestone, Aaron's legacy lives on through his family, former teammates, and the Braves organization. The Braves will celebrate the 50th anniversary with a new exhibit at the Atlanta History Center and a special presentation before Monday night’s game against the Mets. Aaron's wife, Billye Aaron, reflects on the night and the challenges her late husband endured, while Aaron's mother was one of the first people he greeted at home plate after the historic home run.
Charlie Russo, an 81-year-old Braves fan, is sharing a long-private video of Hank Aaron's 715th home run, captured after following Aaron's family onto the field at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium in 1974. The video shows Aaron celebrating with his family and teammates, including Dusty Baker. Russo's remarkable access to the field, despite security concerns, allowed him to film Aaron up close and even take items from the on-deck circle. He plans to pass along these items, and the video, for auction.
The Atlanta Braves have unveiled their City Connect jerseys for the 2023 season, which pay tribute to Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and his record-breaking 715th career home run. The team will wear these uniforms every Saturday home game this season, and a portion of all sales will go to the Henry Louis Aaron Fund. The uniform marks the first of six City Connect jerseys that will launch during 2023, with the other clubs being the Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, and Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Atlanta Braves have unveiled their new Nike City Connect uniforms, which will debut on April 8 against the San Diego Padres and will be worn for every Saturday home game for the remainder of the 2023 season. The uniform pays tribute to Hank Aaron and his record-breaking 715th home run in 1974. The collection will be available for purchase starting April 1 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Henry Louis Aaron Fund.
The Atlanta Braves have unveiled their Nike City Connect jersey, which will be worn during every Saturday home game this year. The jerseys pay homage to Hank Aaron, with a design resembling the one worn in 1974 when he broke Babe Ruth's home run record. The inside collar features a "715" graphic, and the Art Deco-esque crown design on the sleeves is a nod to Aaron as the home run king. The classic "A" logo bears the colors of the 1974 uniform, and a portion of proceeds from the collection will benefit the Henry Louis Aaron Fund.